Maricopa man took journey through bariatric surgery in Gilbert and beyond

When Samuel Martinez moved from Los Angeles to Arizona in 2020, he did not imagine that a global pandemic would reshape his life in more ways than one.

As stay-at-home orders took effect and daily routines dissolved, Martinez, who had always struggled with his weight, found himself working long hours and eating for comfort.

“I really saw my weight blow up during that time,” the Maricopa resident said. “I spent my days working and eating and eating and working.”

By early 2021, the numbers on the scale had reached 468 pounds. On New Year’s Day that year, he decided to go for a walk — a single mile that took between 30 and 45 minutes to finish, with several stops to rest.

“I was young, I shouldn’t be struggling jus

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